In July 1861, Union troops took control of the Kanawha Valley and Gauley Bridge. In response, Confederate Gen. John Floyd led a counterattack in August, winning a small battle at Keslers Cross Lanes before retreating to Carnifex Ferry.

On September 10, Union Gen. William Rosecrans brought 7,000 troops to attack Floyd’s 2,000 men. Instead of attacking all at once, Rosecrans sent in his brigades one at a time, allowing the Confederates to hold their ground. That night, Floyd’s troops quietly retreated.

Though casualties were low, the Union’s control of the area helped lead to a successful vote in favor of creating West Virginia. A Confederate win might have changed the outcome.